AT&T hires extra 2,000 for iPhone launch

No. 1 telecom company bringing in 2,000 temporary employees to deal with anticipated demand for June 29 launch of Apple's cellphone.

June 21 2007: 11:29 AM EDT

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- AT&T has hired 2,000 temporary employees to help manage the influx of shoppers expected June 29 when Apple's iPhone goes on sale.

The No. 1 telecommunications company, which will be the exclusive service provider for the iPhone, said it is planning for enhanced security to help control crowds and prevent the theft of Apple's (up $2.32 to $123.87, Charts, Fortune 500) Wi-Fi-enabled cellphone at its roughly 1,800 stores in the first few months of distribution.